The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has introduced a new £518 monthly Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) payment to assist individuals dealing with long-term health conditions that prevent them from working. This initiative aims to provide financial relief and additional support to those struggling with physical, neurological, and mental health conditions.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, it is crucial to apply as soon as possible to secure this financial aid and access other government support programs. Below, we provide a detailed breakdown of the qualifying criteria, application process, and additional benefits available alongside ESA.
New £518 DWP Payment
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| What is it? | A new Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) payment provided by the DWP for individuals with certain health conditions. |
| Payment Amount | Up to £518 per month, based on eligibility and assessment results. |
| Who is eligible? | Individuals diagnosed with one of 23 recognized medical conditions affecting their ability to work. |
| How to apply? | Applications can be submitted online via the official DWP ESA portal, by phone, or at a Jobcentre Plus. |
| Payment Start Date | Payments are set to begin in the coming months. |
| Main Benefits | Financial assistance, employment support programs, and additional benefits for long-term health conditions. |
| Official Website | DWP ESA Application Portal |
This guide covers who qualifies, how to apply, and what additional support is available for ESA claimants.
What Is the £518 ESA Payment?
The Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) is a government welfare benefit that provides financial aid to individuals who cannot work due to a disability or long-term health condition. The latest increase in ESA payments now allows eligible individuals to receive up to £518 per month.
ESA is designed to help with daily living costs, medical expenses, and work-related support. The scheme is divided into two categories:
1. Contribution-Based ESA
- Available to individuals who have paid sufficient National Insurance (NI) contributions over recent years.
- This form of ESA is not means-tested, meaning it does not depend on household income or savings.
2. Income-Related ESA
- Designed for individuals with low income or savings below £16,000.
- This benefit is means-tested, meaning eligibility depends on financial circumstances.
Which Health Conditions Qualify for ESA?
To qualify for ESA, applicants must provide medical evidence showing that their condition significantly impacts their ability to work. The 23 recognized conditions include:
1. Musculoskeletal Disorders
- Rheumatoid Arthritis & Osteoarthritis
- Chronic Back Pain & Spinal Disorders
2. Neurological Conditions
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Epilepsy
- Motor Neurone Disease
3. Respiratory Conditions
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Severe Asthma
- Cystic Fibrosis
4. Mental Health Conditions
- Severe Depression & Anxiety Disorders
- Bipolar Disorder
- Schizophrenia
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
5. Cardiovascular & Circulatory Disorders
- Heart Failure
- Stroke Aftereffects
- Hypertension with Organ Damage
6. Endocrine Disorders
- Uncontrolled Diabetes with Complications
- Severe Thyroid Disorders
7. Cancer & Autoimmune Diseases
- Certain Advanced-Stage Cancers
- Lupus & Other Severe Autoimmune Disorders
If your condition is not listed, you may still qualify if you can provide medical evidence proving that your health significantly limits your ability to work.
How to Apply for the £518 ESA Payment
Applying for ESA requires supporting medical documentation and an assessment to verify eligibility. Follow these steps to apply:
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
- Ensure your medical condition meets the DWP’s criteria.
- Applicants must be aged 18 or older and below the State Pension age.
- You must not be receiving Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) from an employer.
Step 2: Gather the Necessary Documents
- Medical reports from your GP, consultant, or specialist.
- National Insurance Number for identification.
- Proof of income (if applying for income-related ESA).
Step 3: Submit Your Application
- Online: Apply via the DWP ESA application portal.
- By Phone: Call the DWP ESA helpline at 0800 169 0310.
- In-Person: Visit your nearest Jobcentre Plus for assistance.
Step 4: Attend a Work Capability Assessment (WCA)
- The DWP will evaluate your ability to work through a Work Capability Assessment.
- The assessment includes:
- A questionnaire about your medical condition.
- A face-to-face or telephone medical evaluation.
- If approved, ESA payments will be deposited directly into your bank account.
Additional Benefits You Can Claim Alongside ESA
If you qualify for ESA, you may also be eligible for other government support programs, including:
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – Financial assistance for individuals needing help with daily tasks.
- Universal Credit (UC) – Support for those on a low income.
- Housing Benefit – Assistance with rent payments.
- Council Tax Reduction – Discounts for low-income households.
- Free NHS Prescriptions & Travel Discounts – Available to ESA claimants with long-term health conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible for the £518 ESA payment?
Anyone unable to work due to a long-term health condition and diagnosed with one of the 23 qualifying conditions may be eligible.
2. Is applying for ESA mandatory?
Yes, individuals must apply for ESA through the DWP ESA portal, by phone, or in person at a Jobcentre Plus.
3. When will the payments begin?
ESA payments will be rolled out in the coming months.
4. How is eligibility assessed?
The DWP conducts a Work Capability Assessment (WCA), which involves:
- A detailed questionnaire.
- A medical evaluation (phone or face-to-face).
5. Can I apply if my condition is not on the list?
Possibly. If your condition significantly limits your ability to work, a discretionary medical assessment may still qualify you for ESA.